I still hear the rumors of Newton #1 to the Panthers but I will believe it when I see it.

#1 They drafted Jimmy Claussen last year with a 2nd round pick.
#2 They dont have a 2nd round pick this year meaning this pick must contribute immediately. They cant just sit on the bench learning for 2 years.
#3 The owner is frugal, and wont want to spend #1 QB money. Especially on a project QB.
#4 Steve Smith isnt happy in Carolina, and is a liability to assume will be there next year.
#5 Gave up over 123 rushing yards per game. Good for 22nd.

If the Panthers cant trade out of the #1 spot they will take Marcell Dareus or A.J. Green.

That being said, I know this is a QB driven league, and certain teams can become drunk on a players physical talents, it is at least possible that the Panthers take Newton and tell their fans not to expect playoffs for at least 3 years as they rebuild around Newton.

If they had the same coach that picked Clausen, I would agree, but Rivera wants to make this his team.

If they had the same coach that picked Clausen, I would agree, but Rivera wants to make this his team.

And they will be his team when he puts his stamp on their defense. Spags is a recent example of a defensive minded coach skipping the QB's in 2008 and 2009, getting a tackle and D end. In 2010, 2 years into his HC job he got his franchise QB from Oklahoma.